ABOUT PATHWAYS

Have you ever thought about becoming a surf lifesaver? Or perhaps you’re already a member and would like to know what other opportunities are available to you within the movement?

Each and every year, thousands of men, women and young adults across the state line up to patrol Queensland’s coastline, providing a vital community service and saving thousands of lives in the process.

However, off the beach and behind the scenes, there are literally hundreds of other jobs and opportunities available to those who aren’t confident in the water or don’t want to get their feet wet. Whether it’s a surf sports coach, a club treasurer, a BBQ coordinator or a junior activities age manager, there’s a role for everyone in surf life saving.

Importantly, becoming a surf lifesaver also offers many opportunities both within and outside of the movement.

There is an almost endless scope of lifesaving-related careers available to members, the likes of taking up a medical profession or joining the Defence Force or other emergency services, and many of these doors are opened and supported by the skills learnt during your time as a surf lifesaver.

The Pathways project is all about showcasing the opportunities that lifesaving opens up to all, regardless of age, gender, shape or size. We’ve used real volunteers to share real stories about their involvement within the movement – how it’s shaped them personally, and benefited them professionally.

Whether you’re a new member, current member or a lifesaver returning after a few years’ break, we encourage you to look through the countless opportunities that are available for you to pursue, both on and off the beach. It might just put you on the pathway to a place you never imagined.

ARE YOU A LIFESAVER?

If you are already involved in surf lifesaving, find new pathways based on your current role. If you are new to surf lifesaving, you can explore all the roles and opportunities available by choosing an area of interest.

Director of Surf Sports

Junior Club Captain

Youth & Membership Development Officer

Further Education roles

Assessor

Community Awareness Presenter

Inflatable Rescue Boat Crew

Inflatable Rescue Boat Driver

Lifeguard

Patrol Captain

Patrol Member – Advanced Resuscitation

Patrol Member – Pain Management

Trainer

Rescue Water Craft Operator

Looking for the next challenge? Give your rescue skills a high-octane boost, and save lives as a Rescue Water Craft operator.

The Rescue Water Craft Operator or RWC (jet ski) service works closely with on-beach lifesavers to conduct roving patrols, surveillance and rescue missions along the coastline. As an RWC operator, you will use your training and skills to manage and operate this vital piece of lifesaving equipment to watch over and protect beachgoers.

Training

To obtain qualifications you will need to undergo approximately 15-20 hours of training, encompassing both practical elements and theory components.

Nationally Recognised Units

Upon completion of the required training, you will be awarded the following nationally-recognised units of competency:

PUAEQU001B: Prepare, maintain and test response equipment

PUASAR016A: Operate and maintain a personal watercraft for rescue operations

Further Opportunites

A number of SLSQ’s RWC operators have successfully transitioned into roles working on offshore rescue boats (as crew members, drivers, and/or skippers) and regularly provide water safety at key sporting carnivals including the Queensland and Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.